"Late Modern Philosophy" introduces the leading ideas of the late modern era, with selections from the writings of its most recognized thinkers, including John Locke, David Hume, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, Immanuel Kant, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This period in history represents a turbulent time in western thought. As revealed in the carefully selected readings of this collection, the principal figures of late modern philosophy clashed over methodological issues, and adopted radically different perspectives in metaphysics and theory of knowledge. But just as importantly, they vigorously debated proofs of God's existence, the justification of political authority, and the foundations of morality. Part of the "Blackwell Readings in the History of Philosophy" series, this text, with engaging introductory material for students, is an invaluable survey of late modern philosophy.